Membrane proteins in bacteria are crucial for viability and potential drug targets, but they’ve been underexplored due to structural challenges and limited knowledge about their functions. This study adopts a multidisciplinary approach, using cryo-electron microscopy to reveal the structure of critical membrane proteins in M. tuberculosis. 

Integrating structural insights with cellular and molecular studies, at TBSGC, we aim to understand protein functions and physiological effects to exploit them as drug targets.  Focusing on permeability, efflux, and bacterial growth pathways, we aim to identify inhibitors that can synergize with existing anti-TB compounds. Depleting proteins involved in the mycobacterial cell envelope enhances sensitivity to multiple drugs, suggesting potential synergies.